Delaware Restaurateur Dies In Motorcycle Accident

Award-winning Delaware restaurateur Matt Haley has died following a motorcycle accident in India. He was 53.

Haley's business partner, Scott Kammerer, said Wednesday he was told by State Department officials that Haley died Tuesday night during a medical flight from Leh, India, to New Delhi.

Kammerer said Haley was involved in a "high-impact" collision with a truck Monday at the beginning of a six-week trip through northern India and Nepal. Haley has devoted significant time and resources to humanitarian efforts in the area. He was traveling with international filmmaker and motorcycle expert Guarav Jani.

Haley, who ran several southern Delaware restaurants, received the 2014 James Beard Humanitarian of the Year Award.

“I’m very sad to hear of Matt Haley’s passing. It’s devastating news for all of Delaware, but in particular, the Sussex County community where his caring, giving presence was most clearly felt," Delaware Congressman John Carney said in a statement. He lauded Haley for his "commitment to service."